क्रमायत्तं प्रीतिदत्तं प्राप्तं च सह भार्यया / अविशेषेण सर्वेषां वर्णानां त्रिविधं धनम्
kramāyattaṃ prītidattaṃ prāptaṃ ca saha bhāryayā / aviśeṣeṇa sarveṣāṃ varṇānāṃ trividhaṃ dhanam
For all the varṇas alike, wealth is of three kinds: that gained by due succession (inheritance), that given out of affection, and that obtained together with one’s wife (marital property, dowry, and allied gains).
Lord Vishnu (speaking to Garuda)
Concept: Legitimate acquisition of wealth is categorized into inheritance, affectionate gifting, and marital-associated property, applicable across varṇas.
Vedantic Theme: Artha regulated by dharma; non-attachment implied through right means of acquisition.
Application: In inheritance, gifting, and marriage-related transfers, maintain transparency and dharmic intent; treat these as recognized, non-stigmatized sources of property.
Primary Rasa: shanta
Related Themes: Garuda Purana 1.213.88-91 (varna-specific wealth and occupations)
This verse defines lawful categories of wealth—inheritance, affectionate gifts, and marital acquisitions—so a householder can follow dharma in ownership, sharing, and duty.
By distinguishing legitimate sources of wealth, it supports righteous living: wealth gained and held according to dharma is less likely to become a cause of sin, dispute, or negative karmic consequence.
Earn and document wealth through clear, ethical channels (inheritance, gifts, and marital assets), avoid unjust acquisition, and treat family property with fairness and responsibility.